Thick & Chewy Peanut Butter M&M Bars

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup M&Ms (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

Prep

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9×9-inch pan (for thick bars) or a 9×13-inch pan (for thinner bars) with foil.
3. Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.

Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter.
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

1. Add flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture.
2. Stir just until combined. Do not overmix.

Fold

1. Gently fold in the M&Ms and chocolate chips.

Press

1. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
2. Press additional M&Ms on top for appearance.

Bake

1. Bake for 20–25 minutes.
2. The center should look slightly soft; it will firm up as it cools.
3. Do not overbake to keep the bars soft and chewy.

Cool

1. Allow bars to cool completely in the pan.
2. Use the foil overhang to lift out and cut into squares.

Tips for Best Results

• Use creamy peanut butter for the softest texture.
• For extra gooey bars, remove from the oven closer to 20 minutes.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Bake Time

20–25 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Yield

12–24 bars (depending on pan size)